Heidenheim's losing streak positions them as the underdogs against Stuttgart, despite playing on home turf. The home side will aim to halt a run of six consecutive setbacks but will likely concede numerous opportunities to Stuttgart’s potent attack.
Since 10 November, Heidenheim have conceded at least two goals in all six of their defeats. Over the past week, they were unable to withstand Bayern Munich (2:4) in the Bundesliga and İstanbul Başakşehir (1:3) in the Conference League. In terms of xGA, the team rank among the bottom four in the Bundesliga (24.90), allowing opponents to exceed their expected goals (28 goals conceded—third worst in the league). Four players remain sidelined due to injury.
Stuttgart’s easy progression past 2. Bundesliga strugglers Jahn Regensburg (3:0) in the DFB-Pokal highlighted the squad's internal potential. Under Sebastian Hoeneß, they have shown impressive attacking form, scoring 11 goals in a series of three victories in December. Against BSC Young Boys (5:1), Fabian Rieder was outstanding with three assists, while in the last round against Union Berlin (3:2), Nick Woltemade made a significant impact off the bench with a 2+0 performance.
Heidenheim's frail defence faces VfB Stuttgart with one day less recovery than their opponents. Stuttgart are poised to score at least two goals against the struggling underdog, who always find it tough against high pressing.
